Pregnancy and Varicose Veins

Many women develop varicose veins during pregnancy due to fetal weight placing additional pressure on the legs. When you’re pregnant, the amount of blood in your body increases, as does the progesterone levels in your body, which can cause the walls of your veins to become more relaxed.

The good news is, if you didn’t have varicose veins prior to pregnancy, they often go away on their own after your baby is born. If they don’t, Oklahoma City endovascular specialist Dr. Dominic Pedulla can treat your varicose veins to eliminate the appearance and discomfort associated with this condition.

Preventing Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

There are steps you can take to help reduce your risk of varicose veins during pregnancy including:

• Exercise regularly – Walking, swimming, bicycling, and yoga are fantastic ways to increase circulation during pregnancy
• Maintain a healthy weight – Work with your doctor to keep within a healthy weight range
• Elevate your legs – While sitting or lying down, keep legs elevated above your heart
• Wear compression stockings – Available at many maternity stores, these will help support relaxed veins
• Avoid inactivity – If your profession requires long periods of sitting or standing, take frequent breaks to walk around and improve circulation

These methods can help prevent, but not guarantee against varicose veins. If you develop varicose veins during pregnancy, Dr. Pedulla can discuss your options for treatment and help restore beauty and comfort to your legs.

If you live in or around Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and have developed varicose veins during pregnancy, please contact the Oklahoma Vein & Endovascular Center to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pedulla today.